Hoffman, Velasquez Lead Monarchs Returnees

By USLSoccer.com Staff, 11/28/17, 6:12PM EST

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USL All-League First Team selections among nine players retained for 2018

Photo courtesy Real Monarchs SLC

SANDY, Utah – Real Monarchs SLC announced on Tuesday it had picked up contract options on six players, and signed three players to new contracts as the club prepares to defend its 2017 USL Regular Season Championship. Leading the returnees are forward Chandler Hoffman and midfielder Sebastian Velasquez, both of whom were named to the 2017 USL All-League First Team this month.

Goalkeeper Andrew Putna, defender Michael Gallagher, midfielder Karsten Hanlin and forward Juan Ignacio Mare also had contract options picked up, while midfielders Charlie Adams and Andrew Brody, and defender James Moberg were signed to new contracts. Midfielder Danny Cruz also remains under contract for the 2018 season.

Hoffman had a career season for the Monarchs in 2017, earning nomination as a finalist for the 2017 USL Most Valuable Player award after recording 16 goals and seven assists in the regular season, both single-season bests for the standout forward. Hoffman also scored one goal in the 2017 USL Cup Playoffs.

Velasquez joined Hoffman on the USL All-League First Team after a season that saw him record nine goals and six assists in 27 appearances for the side. Adams and Brody also had strong seasons in midfield for the Monarchs as it claimed the first silverware in club history, with Adams leading the club with eight assists and 54 key passes, and Brody notching four assists and two goals in 25 appearances.

Additionally, the Monarchs announced that the club has declined the contract options of defenders Kyle Curinga and Max Lachowecki, midfielders Diego Calvo, Daniel Haber, Chase Minter, and forward Skyler Milne. Defenders Emilio Orozco, Riggs Lennon and Taylor Peay are out of contract with the club.